Cooler evenings are here, and nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of homemade chicken soup. At Raised Right Farmstead, we believe the secret to truly nourishing comfort food starts with the way your ingredients are raised.
Our pasture-raised chickens are moved daily to fresh grass, sunshine, and bugs. This natural lifestyle not only makes for happier birds but also creates meat that’s richer in flavor and nutrients compared to grocery store chicken. When you simmer our chicken low and slow, you get a broth that’s deeply flavorful, packed with minerals, and perfect for cozy family dinners.
This recipe is simple, hearty, and perfect for using a whole chicken — nothing goes to waste, and every bite is raised right.
Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 whole pasture-raised chicken (about 4–5 lbs)
- 10 cups water
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or a few fresh sprigs)
- 1–2 cups noodles or rice (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Place the whole chicken in a large stock pot. Add water, bay leaves, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Remove chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Strain broth if desired.
- Add carrots and celery to the broth, simmering until tender (about 20 minutes).
- Shred the chicken meat, discarding bones and skin. Return meat to the pot.
- Stir in noodles or rice, cooking until tender. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Bone Broth Boost: Simmer the chicken bones from your chicken longer (up to 12 hours) for an extra-rich broth OR pick up a stock ready bone broth kit and simmer in your slow cooker for up to 48 hours before making your soup.
- Veggie Lovers: Add potatoes, kale, or corn for a heartier soup.
- Make Ahead: Soup stores beautifully in the fridge for 4 days or freezer for up to 3 months.
Why Pasture-Raised Chicken?
Choosing pasture-raised isn’t just about flavor — it’s about health. Chickens raised on pasture produce meat that’s higher in omega-3s and vitamins, while supporting regenerative farming practices that rebuild soil and strengthen our local food system.
When you serve a bowl of chicken soup made with Raised Right Farmstead chicken, you’re nourishing your family in the best way possible.
Until next time friends,
Amanda
Raised Right Farmstead